This may be a silly question, but I was wondering is there a certain speed range to stay under when snow tires are on the vehicle? So far we have no snow here yet and I take the highway a lot.

 

You can go just fast enough that you don't lose control, only you can determine what that is, there is no magic number.

 

Snow tires have speed ratings no different than four season or summer tires.

 

That's not based on driving in a foot of snow is it?

 

The rating determines the ultimate maximum safe speed of the tire, common sense determines how fast to actually drive. The OP was stating that his roads are dry and clear so normal speeds are fine.

 

You're absolutely right Mikey, I'll give myself a slap on the back of the head,

 

No need for that. Have a snowman and some beer instead:

The two make a great combination. We use winter as an excuse to drink beer faster when outside- wouldn't want it to freeze!

Snow tires are actually delicate to a certain degree, not primarily from a speed point of view, but from temperature. The rubber compounds are designed to remain flexible at -20C temps or even colder. No flex, no grip especially on ice. The trade off is if the road temps are higher than +10, the rubber wears very quickly. Installing a new set of expensive tires too early in the season can mean they're worn out before the first flakes fall. If you wait too long and there's a sudden storm, well- you're walking or taking the bus.

 

Speed rating is one thing and grip is entirely another. The winter tires will not explode until you exceed their designated speed rating but driving at high speeds on winter tires in warm temperatures is a potentially alarming situation.

So if you are asking whether the winter tires will stay in one piece at high speeds then the answer is yes as long as you do not exceed the maximum speed rating marked on the tire. However, if you are asking whether it is safe to drive on your winter tires at those rated speeds in warm weather, I say not really. Only if the roads are colder than 7C then winter tires are actually safer at high speeds than summer tires with the same speed rating. This is assuming the roads are bare. If snow or ice is possible then you must drive for the conditions and not the speed capability of the tires.

 

I tried to answer that very question at the Virginia International and Mid-Ohio race tracks. Morning temps were below freezing both times, and since I know my race tires grip like blocks of wood when cold I left the LM Blizzaks on for the first sessions. I'd run out of straightish track north of 130 mph, and they performed rather well overall. So while I didn't find their speed limit, I would suggest the Blizzak is up to it if 130 mph is sufficient for your daily commute

Bruce